Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Are we really walking in a forest?

It depends. Forest therapy allows a person to connect with nature. Nature exists outside forests too. City gardens, parks and beaches are some examples where meaningful connections with nature can take place and for you to receive your well-deserved mental and emotional recharge. Indoor sessions are also possible by bringing elements of nature in! Our participants are continually awed by how urban nature can positively impact them, and thankful for the green and blue spaces we have around us!

Are all classes held outdoors?

Not all. But since nature primarily exists outdoors, majority of our classes are held outside. That said, we also hold indoor classes (please see Q1).

Am I suitable for the classes if I have never spent much time outdoors or have never hiked before?

Our classes are designed to be accessible to everyone of varied fitness and outdoor experience. Embodying the principles of forest therapy, classes are conducted at a slow pace and we typically cover no more than 800 m for the entire duration. We typically wander along well-established pavements in the gardens, grass lawns and/or well-established trails. The routes are convenient, safe, and are also mostly level and no significant physical exertion will be required. Remember: forest therapy is more of a work-in than a work-out.

I prefer a private class. Would you recommend this and what are your schedules for private classes?

Everyone has different needs and circumstances. We believe you know yourself best and knows intuitively what works for you. We do private classes for individuals, as well as group private classes (round up your close friends and have a class together!). Please contact us (xiunatureconnections@gmail.com or fill up the form below) for available class dates/times.

What are the differences between taking part in a guided class and taking my own walks in the parks?

The principles of forest therapy are starkly different from a usual walk or stroll in the park. There is an intentional effort to use our senses to connect with nature, which may not come naturally or easily for people who are not familiar with nature connections. A guided class is structured and experiential. An experienced guide will offer specific activities to facilitate your class, helping you to receive a deeper, more profound experience with nature. A guided class also comprises of council - a sharing circle which is a transformative part of forest therapy. We continue to be humbled and amazed by how forest therapy positively and deeply impacts our participants, even those who work with nature or have close affinity with nature! Come for a class and decide for yourself. :)

How is a forest therapy walk different from hiking or a nature walk?

Please see Q5. In addition, forest therapy focuses a lot on being in the present moment. Both hiking and nature walks are also excellent ways to appreciate nature, but have different motives and focus. Hiking is typically more active and more goal-oriented, and nature walks typically focus on Science knowledge. Forest therapy walks present to you another way of knowing nature - more intuitive, more heart-felt, more slowly.

Do you do retreats?

Yes, we hear you! After frequent calls for retreats, we are happy to announce that we are commencing Journeys in 2019. We are as excited as you! Please stay tuned. Subscribe to our updates here.

Do you organise sessions for companies?

Yes! We do private corporate sessions for wellness, for mindfulness week, for team buildings, for executive retreats etc. Please contact us (xiunatureconnections@gmail.com or fill up the form below) for in-depth discussion, customisation and proposal.